SAN JOSE (KCBS) – Two of the three biggest Bay Area cities don’t have a voice on a panel that sets priorities on regional transit issues – for now.

But Assembly Bill 57, authored by Assemblyman Jim Beall, would give San Jose and Oakland seats on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

“MTC hasn’t changed since 1970. We think that with the new population statistics in the 2010 Census and the fact that San Jose is the biggest city in terms of jobs and population, we think that these cities should have representation on MTC. It’s long overdue,” said Beall.

KCBS’ Mike Colgan Reports:

San Jose, Oakland Want Representation On Transportation Agency

San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed reinforced that point when he testified before the California Senate Transportation and Housing Committee.

“The direct appointments from San Jose and Oakland, as contemplated by AB 57, would provide San Jose and Oakland a seat at the table when decisions are being made,” said Reed. “But even more importantly, having us directly engage with MTC and working on regional issues is important to the success of this regional body.”

San Francisco, which feels it would lose some of its decision making powers, is opposed to the bill, which has already passed the Assembly.

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